Despite Production Delays, Rivian Customers Remain Loyal to Revolutionary Electric Vehicles
Rivian is a new entrant in the electric vehicle (EV) market. It has been offering pre-orders for its R1S and R1T models since 2018, with estimated delivery dates of 2021. However, recently it was announced that all deliveries will be pushed back to the first half of 2023 due to production delays. This news has understandably caused frustration among customers who have been waiting years for their vehicles.
Rivian had promised to honor the original prices for orders placed before March 22nd, but some customers are still feeling let down by the company’s lack of communication about the delay. They point out that other automakers like Mercedes and Audi offer EVs which can be delivered much sooner than Rivian’s current timeline. Furthermore, there is disappointment over the fact that the 400 mile range Maxpack option won't be available for the R1S model.
Some customers have decided to cancel their orders and wait for other options to come along, while others remain hopeful that Rivian will eventually deliver on its promises. The competition from legacy makers such as Ford is intensifying, so it remains to be seen if Rivian can survive this setback and succeed in the EV market.
Rivian has been working hard to make up for the delay. It recently announced a new financing program that allows customers to pay off their pre-orders in monthly installments, and it is also offering discounts on accessories like bike racks and roof tents. The company has also promised more transparency about its production timeline going forward, so customers can better plan for when they will receive their vehicles.
The EV market is still relatively young, but Rivian’s setback shows how difficult it can be to bring an innovative product from concept to reality. Despite the delays, many of Rivian’s original supporters remain loyal and are looking forward to finally getting behind the wheel of one of these revolutionary electric vehicles in 2023 or beyond!
What should I do if my pre-order from years ago has been pushed to 2023?
If you ordered before March’22, the price is locked in. If you cancel your order and go to another automaker to buy an EV SUV, you will be waiting about the same time. Consider other options such as the iD6 or Lincoln Navigator EV, and determine if there will be any support for the vehicle.
How can I trust Rivian anymore?
It is understandable to feel frustrated with the delays. However, Rivian is following the Tesla way of doing things and they do not have the luxury of trial and failure to figure things out like Tesla did. Consider that Ford has bailed and is getting their quicker and more cost effectively based on a proven product.
Is it possible for Rivian to hike the price on locked pre-orders?
If you ordered before March’22, the price is locked in. Rivian has not indicated any plans to hike the price on pre-orders. They have been very transparent about their timeline and have provided updates regularly.
What other options do I have?
Consider other options such as the iD6 or Lincoln Navigator EV, and determine if there will be any support for the vehicle. You could also look into leasing a used EV SUV, which would provide you with a vehicle now, and then when your Rivian arrives, you can switch back to it.
Are there any incentives available?
Depending on where you live, there may be incentives available for purchasing an electric vehicle. Check with your local government to see what is available in terms of tax credits or rebates. Additionally, Rivian offers a referral program that rewards customers with discounts for referring friends and family to purchase a Rivian vehicle.